Maritime Security: Russian drones struck a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier off Odesa, disabling technical systems and forcing evacuation; a Guinea-Bissau-flagged vessel (Mera Queen) was also hit while carrying wheat, underscoring how Black Sea conflict is spilling into civilian shipping. Defense & Tech: Ukraine says it hit major Russian refineries (Bashneft-Novoil and Slavneft-YANOS) with long-range drones, while Europe-backed missile defense work (Fire Point’s Freyja) targets an intercept capability in mid-2027. Local Governance & Revenue Tech: WATAF gathered nearly 400 participants across 16 countries to modernize Value Added Tax administration using digital tools—relevant for West Africa’s push toward stronger domestic revenue. Political Crisis Solutions: Guinea-Bissau researchers and academics propose a transitional framework for a unity government after the 2025 self-coup, calling for dialogue with international guarantors and steps like political ceasefire, prisoner releases, and security guarantees. Press Freedom: MFWA urges Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Guinea to end arbitrary arrests and prolonged detention of journalists and civil society actors. Health & Climate: Scientists warn climate change could shift malaria into new East African highland areas, potentially raising childhood malaria even where hot-spot burdens fall.